California Leads in Average Hourly Earnings
California residents are among the highest hourly earners in the United States, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This information highlights the state’s strong economic position and its role as a major hub for high-paying jobs.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently released data on total private average hourly earnings by state, along with average weekly earnings and the average number of hours Americans work per week as of June 2025. These figures provide a comprehensive view of labor trends across the country.
What is the Average Hourly Pay in California?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for residents in California is $41.22. This figure is not seasonally adjusted, meaning it reflects the actual data without adjustments for seasonal variations. Additionally, the average worker in California works 33.2 hours per week.
California’s average hourly pay is the highest among all 50 states. However, it is worth noting that Washington, D.C., and Washington state both have higher average hourly wages than California.
Top States with the Highest Average Hourly Pay
Employees in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., earn the most money with an average hourly pay of $54.21. Here is a list of the top states with the highest average hourly pay:
- Washington: $42.26
- Massachusetts: $42.00
- California: $41.22
- Colorado: $39.19
- Minnesota: $39.17
- New York: $39.14
- Connecticut: $38.98
- New Jersey: $37.87
- Hawaii: $37.62
- Alaska: $37.49
These numbers reflect the economic strength of these regions and their ability to attract well-paying jobs.
California’s Position in the Western Region
When comparing California to other western states, the state continues to hold a strong position in terms of average hourly pay. Here are the figures for some key western states:
- Washington: $42.26
- Oregon: $36.83
- Arizona: $34.63
- Nevada: $32.01
This shows that while California leads in the region, neighboring states still offer competitive wages.
Unemployment Rate and Job Growth in California
Despite the high wages, California’s unemployment rate remained stable in June 2025 at 5.4%. The seasonally adjusted rate in May 2025 was slightly lower at 5.3%. According to a department press release, California’s economy added an estimated 17,700 jobs during this period.
The national unemployment rate in June 2025 was 4.1%, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This indicates that California’s job market is performing relatively well compared to the rest of the country.
Economic Outlook
California’s strong labor market, combined with its high average hourly pay, underscores the state’s continued economic vitality. With a diverse range of industries, including technology, entertainment, and agriculture, the state remains a key player in the U.S. economy.
As more workers seek opportunities in high-wage sectors, California’s position as a leader in earnings is likely to remain strong in the coming years.
